Fashion & Beauty
Makeover Your Formal Look
By Annemette Harnes and Olamide Oladipo
Photography by Jason Schnier
Summer 2009
Models: Erica Senat ('12), Alex Almore ('12) and Maya Espada ('12).
Clothes and location courtesy of LF Boutique in Harvard Square
With House Formals right around the corner, every girl faces the same dilemma: which dress? But instead of pulling out your little black dress staple, it's time to go shopping and makeover your formal look with some new outfits and ideas...
Before pictures:
Floral Sundress: What can be more appropriate for spring? Floral dresses are perfect because they not only manage to be both classic and flirty, but also are elegant and casual. Dressing it up with some nice shoes and jewelry make it perfect for formal, and dressing it down with a cardigan and flats make it perfect for a day out.
The Classic Frock: Channel your inner old style glam by wearing old-fashioned styles like lace and updating them with killer shoes and accessories. Perfect for any and every occasion, these dresses always lend style and glamour to the wearer. Also, adding edgier pieces like a blazer or black pumps lends a rocker edge to a feminine frock.
Business Chic: Who says you can't mix business with pleasure? With more and more dresses inspired by women's work wear, a business-like dress exemplifies power and control. Pair it with girly accessories, such as yellow pumps or flowery headbands, to send a message that you're a girl who can balance being in control and having fun.
Other Ideas:
Going out with a statement dress means downplaying the hair and makeup. Instead of the clichéd curls and bright eye shadow, try going for the more mature sleek flat-ironed hair and smoky eyes. This look also holds better in the summer heat.
There are also ways to makeover an outfit you already have. Going to a tailor and shortening a long dress, or pairing an already short one with a blazer or accent jewelry pieces are great ways to update a look without spending the money for a whole new outfit.
Unsure about wearing heels? Not all pumps are uncomfortable. Choosing pumps with a thick heel makes a world of difference. Another option: make your shoes more comfortable by wearing padded peds or going to your cobbler and adding Insolia gel inserts.
